OVER 2000 Ukrainians have been welcomed to East Sussex since the Homes for Ukraine scheme started more than three years ago.
East Sussex residents have shown their continuing and steadfast support, with over 900 host families providing a safe and welcoming home for those fleeing the conflict.
To mark Ukraine Independence Day on August 24, the county council is thanking residents for their support and reminding people host families are still needed for those seeking refuge.
Hosts have played an invaluable role in helping Ukrainian guests to build an independent life in this country.
Lidiia was hosted by a local family following her move to Hastings with her son.
Lidiia said: “Our hosts welcomed us at the airport with warm hugs. From the very first moment, I felt that their home was filled with love, respect, and kindness. Their son is close in age to mine, and the boys quickly became friends, almost like brothers.
“Although we have been living in rented accommodation for the past year, our host family remains as close as ever — we still celebrate holidays and birthdays together.”
Lidiia has been able to continue her profession as a florist and is gradually rebuilding her career. Her Christmas wreath workshops in Rye and Hastings are extremely popular and she has created flowers for local weddings too. “Floristry for me is not just a job – it is a part of who I am.”
Joining the community in Hastings has been extremely important for Lidiia and helped her find a sense of belonging: “I am deeply grateful to everyone who welcomed us and helped us build a new life in Britain.”
Numerous local groups and organisations have provided support and services to help those arriving in East Sussex settle and achieve independence.
The county council and its partners are committed to supporting Ukrainian guests and hosts in East Sussex. Since the start of the scheme, 865 guests have been assisted to move into independent accommodation and the council has directly supported over 420 people into employment.
Ukrainian staff have been recruited to the authority and partner organisations, and the Ukrainian Guest Advisory Panel has been set up to enable the council and its partners to gain feedback from Ukrainian guests about their experiences.
Support available to guests includes English language learning, advice on moving on from a host family and housing options, information on employment, education, and wellbeing, and the positive activities available for children and young people.
Cllr Keith Glazier, leader of East Sussex County Council, said: “We are very grateful for the support from all our hosts and local communities during the last three years, and thank them for their continuing generosity and assistance.
“However, with an ongoing conflict in Ukraine, it remains a difficult and uncertain time. We are still receiving on average six to ten Ukrainian guests into the county each month, and our support and solidarity is still needed.”
Those reaching the end of their Homes for Ukraine visa can apply for the Ukrainian Permission Extension scheme, which provides a further 18 months to remain in the UK.
Full details about the East Sussex Homes for Ukraine scheme including information on hosting and the support available for Ukrainian guests is online at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/community/supporting-refugees/homes-for-ukraine.
Residents wanting to know more about hosting can also email ukraine@eastsussex.gov.uk or call the advice line between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, on 01273 337010.